Meet the newest additions to the YNPN Board!

Meet the newest additions to the YNPN Board!

Earlier this year we welcomed three new members to the YNPN National Board. We wanted to take a brief moment to introduce you to some of the people who will be helping guide YNPN for the next two years. Please help us welcome Karl, Amber, and Ivan!

Karl Shaddock

Karl Shaddock

What do you do?

I’m Development Coordinator for Nebraska Community Foundation’s southwest region. I work with 24 communities across a 17,000 square mile region of the state to organize, train and provide technical assistance to local volunteers who are interested in forming and growing community foundations in their hometowns. Nebraska Community Foundation employs a unique, grass-roots based model that uses philanthropy as a tool for community development. NCF empowers local leaders to raise their own funds and make their own grants based on their local community development priorities.

Are you affiliated with a local chapter?

No. Unfortunately, I’ve never lived in a city that has a local chapter – this is due mainly to my passion for living and working in rural communities.

Why did you apply for the YNPN National Board?

I believe strongly in YNPN’s mission and vision - YNPN works to advance a diverse and powerful social sector by activating emerging leaders led by the belief that stronger communities are built by a network of inspired and engaged leaders. YNPN approaches its work through an optimistic, asset-based development framework that I find inspiring.

Serving on the YNPN National board member allows me to network and learn among a group of diverse, engaged young leaders from across the country who work for a host of prominent social service, fundraising and philanthropic organizations across the country.

I serve on the YNPN National board to expand my network and engage with other emerging thought leaders. My work with NCF is challenging and fulfilling, but I am excited by the opportunity to engage with a network of peers that I can learn from and with. YNPN will challenge me to make an impact as I get to know other young people who are passionate and engaged with the issues that motivate me.

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Greek yogurt – breakfast, lunch or dinner it doesn’t matter.

What is your spirit animal?

I was once told I had the hair of a golden retriever dog, so I’ll go with that.

If you could describe yourself with a gif, what would it be?

Amber Cruz

Amber Cruz

What do you do?

I am the Strategy Officer for Convening at Lumina Foundation; a private, independent foundation with a goal to increase postsecondary educational attainment in the U.S. to 60% by 2025. In my role I design, plan and implement convenings in support of Lumina's strategic plan. Lumina has an outcomes-based approach focused on helping to design and build an accessible higher education system and mobilize action at the local, state and national level to reach Goal 2025.

Are you affiliated with a local chapter?

I recently relocated from Washington DC to Indianapolis. Over the last couple years I have been involved in the DC Chapter by attending and speaking at their events. I will also be playing an advisory role with the Indy Chapter.

Why did you apply for the YNPN National Board?

I'm passionate about the next generation of nonprofit leaders who want to change the world. I believe YNPN plays an important role in the sector by connecting emerging leaders with opportunities to develop their leadership skills, build their network and make an impact in their community.

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

As a baker, I have quite the sweet tooth. I somehow always find room for dessert! So I could probably live on chocolate for the rest of my life.

What is your spirit animal?

According to my Myers Brigg personality, my ENFJ = a dog: social butterflies who are cheerleaders and supporters...the living embodiment of a "team player."

If you could describe yourself with a gif, what would it be?

I wish I was this:

but most days I'm this:

Ivan Canada

Ivan Canada

What do you do?

I work for an organization that seeks to build compassionate and just communities free of bias, bigotry and racism. My role within The National Conference for Community and Justice of the Piedmont Triad, Inc (NCCJ) is Senior Director of Development, Communications and Strategic Partnerships.

Why did you apply for the YNPN National Board?

I wanted to be a part of a larger movement of young professionals dedicated to advancing their skills, experiences and ultimately their careers while doing amazing work within the sector that makes communities better across the country. And I wanted help the organization expand its reach to provide more opportunities for young adults working in the social sector.

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Indian food!

What is your spirit animal?

A bunny--people that know me say I'm like the Energizer Bunny because I'm always doing something and seem to make time for everything.

If you could describe yourself with a gif, what would it be?

Because I like making connections, building relationships and connecting people: